I am seeking 2-3 volunteers to help me mist-net bats and conduct flowering phenological surveys in Jalisco, Mexico. This project is part of my dissertation research at UCLA, on gene flow of a bat-pollinated tree species. Work will mostly be in the field, at night, at sites in and around the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve (about three hours south of Puerto Vallarta).
QUALIFICATIONS: Assistants must be in good physical condition, have or be willing to get the rabies vaccine, and have had prior experience handling bats or other small mammals, and/or mist-netting. An ability to deal with biting insects, potential snakes and scorpions, and heat and humidity is required. An ability to speak Spanish preferred, but not necessary. Assistants need to bring their own gloves and headlamps. We will most likely work from 6:30pm- 2am. DATES: Early to mid –June until early August (approximately 8 weeks total, some flexibility with starting and ending dates). LIVING CONDITIONS: Assistants will live in a house with basic supplies with other members of the field team. Sleeping areas may be on couches and air mattresses. We will take turns cooking and cleaning. A sense of humor and ability to get along with other people in close quarters in essential. The area is isolated, but there is internet access at the house, and medical facilities nearby. COMPENSATION: This is a volunteer position. Shared room and board is included. The assistants are expected to work 5 days on, 1 day off, due to the concentrated nature of the flowering period of the focal tree species being pollinated by the bats. To apply for this position, please email the following to Pam Thompson at [email protected]: (1) a letter outlining your qualifications for this position; (2) current CV with references. Please use "Field assistant application" as the subject line. Application Deadline: Applications will be considered immediately until the positions are filled.
